For Patients

Scans & Imaging

MRI SCAN

This remains the gold standard for spine problems.
However, up to 85% of us show abnormal findings without back pain. Thus it is not very “specific”. Is it though very “sensitive”. As a result it is often more use for what it does not show.

One drawback to MRI is that some people are not happy being placed in a relatively confined space. Other reasons for being unable to have an MRI are having a pacemaker and having some types of metal in their body; such as fragments in their eye or brain.

These scans can be obtained through both the NHS and Private systems. Contact us for more details.

COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CT) SCAN

This is good to “see” the bones with but less good with regard to the discs and other soft tissues.

It may be of value if someone is unable to have an MRI, but again it involves being placed in a fairly confined space.

X-RAYS

These tend to be the quickest and easiest images to obtain but are probably the least sensitive, certainly as far as the pain clinic goes.

However, we do use X-rays to guide us when we place needles into and around the spine but here they are being used for a different purpose.

95% OF PEOPLE WOULD RECOMMEND THE PAIN TEAM

"The Pain Team have improved the quality of my day-to-day existence enormously. I remain most grateful."

The Pain Team c/o The Hampshire Clinic, Old Basing, Hampshire, RG24 7AL

Important COVID-19 Message

The Pain Team whilst unable to do face to face consultations are able to conduct telephone consultations while the lockdown is in place with advice on medication issues for acute and chronic pain or the way forward when we are running a normal service.

Please contact info@thepainteam.com to discuss this service. Please put a contact telephone number on you email. Your location is also helpful.